Shakespeare's Birthplace, Stratford-upon-Avon
Step into the childhood home of William Shakespeare and explore the Tudor house where the world’s greatest playwright was born and raised.
Shakespeare's Birthplace is a restored 16th-century half-timbered house located on Henley Street in Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire, England. Believed to be the childhood home of William Shakespeare, this historic house offers visitors a glimpse into the early life of the world’s greatest playwright. Now a museum managed by the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust, it showcases period architecture, family history, rare artefacts, and live theatre performances, making it a must-visit for literature lovers and cultural explorers alike.
A brief summary to William Shakespeare
- 20 Waterside, Stratford-upon-Avon, CV37 6GJ, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit early in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy a more intimate experience of the house and live performances.
- Allow time to explore the exhibitions and artefacts that provide context to Shakespeare’s family life and Elizabethan England.
- Combine your visit with nearby Shakespeare-related sites such as Holy Trinity Church and the Royal Shakespeare Theatre.
- Check the schedule for live theatre performances within the birthplace for a unique cultural experience.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
- Seating Areas
Getting There
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Train and Walk
From Stratford-upon-Avon railway station, take a 10-15 minute walk through the town center to Henley Street where Shakespeare's Birthplace is located. The route is mostly flat and accessible, suitable for all mobility levels.
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Bus
Local buses run frequently from Stratford town center to Henley Street. The journey takes about 5-10 minutes. Tickets cost approximately £2-£4. Check local timetables for service frequency and accessibility.
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Car and Park
Visitors driving to Stratford can park at nearby public car parks such as the Windsor Street car park, about a 5-minute walk from the birthplace. Parking fees typically range from £3 to £10 depending on duration. Note that Henley Street itself is pedestrianized.
William Shakespeare location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about William Shakespeare
A Tudor Home Steeped in Literary History
Shakespeare's Birthplace is a beautifully preserved half-timbered house dating back to the 16th century, situated in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon. This modest yet historically significant dwelling is where William Shakespeare was born in 1564 and spent his formative years. The house reflects the typical architecture of the Tudor period, featuring wattle and daub walls around a wooden frame. Originally, it was partly a family home and partly a place of business for John Shakespeare, William's father, who was a glove maker and wool dealer. The house’s timbered façade and period interiors transport visitors back to Shakespeare’s early life and times.Exploring the Shakespeare Family Legacy
The house offers insight into the Shakespeare family’s social standing and domestic life. John Shakespeare, a respected town official who eventually became Mayor of Stratford, lived here with his wife Mary Arden and their eight children, including William. The house remained in the family for generations, passing through William’s daughter Susanna and her descendants until it was acquired by the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust in 1847. Visitors can explore the rooms where Shakespeare grew up, learn about his family’s history, and see artefacts from the Trust’s extensive collection that illuminate the bard’s personal and professional background.A Cultural Hub for Shakespeare Enthusiasts
Today, Shakespeare's Birthplace is more than just a historic house; it is a vibrant cultural site. The museum regularly features live performances of Shakespeare’s works, allowing visitors to experience his plays in an intimate setting closely connected to his life. Exhibitions and displays provide context about the Elizabethan era and Shakespeare’s enduring influence on literature and theatre worldwide. The site is a focal point for those wishing to deepen their understanding of Shakespeare’s roots and the environment that shaped his genius.Stratford-upon-Avon: A Town of Timeless Charm
The birthplace is located in Stratford-upon-Avon, a picturesque market town renowned for its Tudor architecture and rich cultural heritage. The town itself grew prosperous through the wool trade and became an important center for crafts and commerce by Shakespeare’s time. Visitors to the birthplace can also explore nearby landmarks such as Holy Trinity Church, where Shakespeare was baptized and buried, and the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, home to world-class performances of his plays. The town’s blend of historic charm and vibrant arts scene makes it an ideal destination for cultural tourism.Preserving a Global Literary Treasure
Managed by the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust, the site is carefully preserved to maintain its historical integrity while providing educational and engaging experiences for visitors. The Trust’s stewardship ensures that Shakespeare’s birthplace remains accessible and relevant, connecting people from around the world to the life and legacy of England’s greatest playwright. The house’s conservation and interpretation efforts highlight the importance of heritage in understanding literary history and cultural identity.Visiting Experience and Atmosphere
Walking through Shakespeare's Birthplace, you can almost feel the echoes of the past — the creak of wooden floors, the scent of aged timber, and the quiet dignity of a family home that nurtured a literary genius. The atmosphere is one of reverence mixed with lively celebration, as actors bring Shakespeare’s words to life and exhibitions invite reflection on his timeless impact. The site offers a unique combination of historical authenticity and cultural vitality, making it a compelling stop for visitors of all ages and interests.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Countess of Evesham
0.1 km
Indulge in traditional British cuisine at The Countess of Evesham, a charming restaurant on the waterside in Stratford-upon-Avon, surrounded by natural beauty.
Stratford Waterside Market
0.1 km
Discover unique artisan treasures and vibrant street food in Stratford-upon-Avon's charming riverside market.
Tramway Bridge
0.1 km
Historic 1826 red brick pedestrian bridge over the River Avon, blending industrial heritage with tranquil riverside views in Stratford-upon-Avon.
Stratford Upon Avon Bandstand
0.2 km
Historic bandstand in Stratford-upon-Avon offering free summer concerts and a vibrant community atmosphere in a scenic park setting.
Sinister Stratford
0.2 km
Explore the darker side of Stratford-upon-Avon with Sinister Stratford's captivating tours of haunted history and folklore.
Stratford-upon-Avon Town Council
0.3 km
Explore Stratford-upon-Avon and its rich heritage at the Town Council, your gateway to local culture and events in Shakespeare's hometown.
Stratford-upon-Avon Town Hall
0.3 km
Elegant Palladian landmark in Stratford-upon-Avon, blending rich history, Shakespearean heritage, and civic tradition since 1767.
Garrick
0.3 km
Step into Stratford-upon-Avon's oldest pub, where medieval charm meets hearty fare and centuries of captivating history.
Statue Of Shakespeare Stratford-upon-Avon
0.4 km
A bronze tribute to the Bard in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon, where literature and history come alive on Henley Street.
The Shakespeare Birthplace Shop
0.4 km
Discover the essence of Shakespeare's legacy at The Shakespeare Birthplace Shop, a unique gift shop in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon.
The Shakespeare Memorial Fountain
0.5 km
A Victorian Gothic tribute in Stratford’s marketplace celebrating Shakespeare, Queen Victoria, and Anglo-American friendship.
Shakespeare & Company Holiday Home
0.7 km
Discover the enchanting Shakespeare & Company Holiday Home in Stratford-upon-Avon, where history and comfort blend seamlessly for an unforgettable stay.
Anne Hathaway's Cottage
2.0 km
Discover the enchanting Anne Hathaway's Cottage, a historical museum celebrating Shakespeare's beloved wife in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon.
Stratford Fountains
2.4 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of the Stratford Fountains, a must-visit tourist attraction in Stratford-upon-Avon, perfect for relaxation and cultural exploration.
Stratford Armouries
4.4 km
Discover the rich cultural heritage of Stratford-upon-Avon at Stratford Armouries, where history comes alive through engaging exhibits and interactive experiences.
Unmissable attractions to see
Young Will statue
0.0 km
A captivating bronze tribute to Shakespeare’s youth, inviting visitors to connect with the Bard amid Stratford’s tranquil Bancroft Garden.
Bancroft Gardens
0.0 km
A tranquil riverside retreat in Stratford-upon-Avon blending Shakespearean heritage, lush gardens, and vibrant waterways beside the Royal Shakespeare Theatre.
Swan Fountain
0.0 km
Celebrate 800 years of Stratford’s market heritage at the shimmering Swan Fountain in scenic Bancroft Gardens.
Stratford Town Walk and Stratford Ghost Walk
0.1 km
Discover Shakespeare’s hometown by day and its haunted secrets by night on engaging guided walks through Stratford-upon-Avon.
Canal River Cruises
0.1 km
Relax and explore Stratford-upon-Avon’s historic waterways on a scenic canal and river cruise featuring working locks and lively commentary.
Bancroft Basin
0.1 km
Historic canal basin and marina at Stratford-upon-Avon’s heart, blending scenic beauty with rich Shakespearean heritage and lively community events.
Royal Shakespeare Theatre
0.1 km
Experience Shakespeare’s world at the iconic Royal Shakespeare Theatre, where history, innovation, and the River Avon converge in Stratford-upon-Avon.
Gower Memorial
0.1 km
A captivating bronze monument in Bancroft Gardens celebrating Shakespeare’s genius through iconic characters and timeless artistry.
The Swan Theatre
0.1 km
An intimate Victorian-Gothic theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon, blending historic charm with modern design to celebrate Shakespeare’s contemporaries and theatrical heritage.
Tudor World
0.2 km
Step into Tudor England’s vibrant past with immersive exhibits and historic charm in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon.
Stratford-upon-Avon Tourist Information Centre
0.2 km
Your welcoming gateway to Stratford-upon-Avon’s rich Shakespearean heritage and local discoveries.
Stratford Big Wheel
0.2 km
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of Stratford-upon-Avon from the accessible and family-friendly Stratford Big Wheel.
The Old Slaughterhouse
0.2 km
A charming heritage and arts centre in Stratford-upon-Avon blending history, creativity, and community spirit in a peaceful setting.
Clopton Bridge
0.2 km
Explore Stratford-upon-Avon's iconic 15th-century Clopton Bridge, a historic stone crossing with 14 arches and scenic River Avon views.
New Place Gardens
0.2 km
Explore the tranquil gardens marking Shakespeare’s family home site, where history, art, and nature intertwine in Stratford-upon-Avon.
Essential places to dine
The Barge and Quarterdeck
0.1 km
Charming waterside restaurant and bar in Stratford-upon-Avon, famed for wood-fired pizzas and scenic canal views.
The Rooftop Restaurant at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre
0.1 km
Savor seasonal British cuisine with stunning river views atop Stratford’s iconic Royal Shakespeare Theatre.
Thespians
0.1 km
Authentic Indian and Bangladeshi flavors in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon, blending tradition with a welcoming atmosphere.
Zizzi - Stratford-upon-Avon
0.1 km
Italian flavours in the heart of Shakespeare’s Stratford, with wood-fired pizzas, fresh pasta, and a rooftop terrace for al fresco dining.
Carluccio's
0.1 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors in a charming riverside setting at Carluccio's Stratford-upon-Avon.
Café Rouge - Stratford Upon Avon
0.1 km
Classic French bistro charm with authentic cuisine and a welcoming atmosphere in Stratford-upon-Avon’s historic center.
Coffee Clouds
0.1 km
A cozy Stratford-upon-Avon café serving expertly crafted coffee and homemade treats in a charming, intimate setting.
Encore Stratford Upon Avon
0.1 km
A stylish British pub and restaurant in Stratford-upon-Avon offering classic dishes, waterfront views, and a lively yet welcoming atmosphere.
No 44 Restaurant
0.2 km
Elegant dining by Stratford’s Waterside with seasonal British-European cuisine and two AA Rosettes for excellence.
The Opposition
0.2 km
Historic bistro in Stratford-upon-Avon offering seasonal, hearty dishes in a cozy 16th-century setting, perfect for pre-theatre dining.
Lambs
0.2 km
Historic Tudor charm and classic English cuisine combine at Lambs, Stratford-upon-Avon's beloved cozy restaurant.
Wildwood Restaurants Stratford-upon-Avon
0.2 km
Contemporary Italian dining in Stratford-upon-Avon with standout vegan options and a bright, welcoming atmosphere.
The View
0.2 km
Enjoy fresh British fare with stunning panoramic views over Warwickshire countryside at The View, a charming farm-based restaurant near Stratford-upon-Avon.
The Vintner
0.2 km
A historic Stratford wine bar and restaurant serving seasonal British fare in a warm, traditional setting, ideal for pre-theatre dining.
Loxleys Restaurant & Wine Bar
0.2 km
A family-run modern British restaurant in Stratford-upon-Avon, famed for innovative cuisine, cozy ambiance, and an exceptional wine selection.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Italy's Little Secret
0.1 km
Experience the authentic taste of Italy at Italy's Little Secret, a charming boutique restaurant in Stratford-upon-Avon, perfect for food lovers.
Boutique Jsk
0.1 km
Discover unique women's fashion and local craftsmanship at Boutique Jsk, a stylish independent shop on historic Sheep Street in Stratford-upon-Avon.
Auburn Fox Home
0.2 km
Discover unique furniture and homewares with personalized service in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon.
Vinegar Hill Wardrobe
0.2 km
Discover elegant ladies’ fashion in the historic charm of Stratford-upon-Avon’s Vinegar Hill Wardrobe boutique.
Marks and Spencer
0.2 km
A trusted British retail destination offering quality food, clothing, and convenience in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon.
Jigsaw
0.2 km
Discover timeless British womenswear and accessories at Jigsaw, Stratford-upon-Avon's elegant fashion boutique on Bridge Street.
Jack Wills
0.2 km
Discover timeless British fashion and contemporary style at Jack Wills in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon’s historic High Street.
Accessorize
0.2 km
Discover stylish accessories, clothing, and jewelry at Accessorize in Stratford-upon-Avon, where fashion meets Shakespearean charm.
Lush Cosmetics Stratford Upon Avon
0.3 km
Discover fresh, handmade, and ethical beauty products at Lush Stratford Upon Avon, where sustainability meets vibrant community spirit.
Wilfreds of Stratford
0.3 km
Discover timeless sweets and local charm at Wilfreds of Stratford, a beloved confectionery shop on Stratford-upon-Avon's historic High Street.
White Stuff Stratford Upon Avon
0.3 km
Contemporary, sustainable fashion for all ages in the heart of historic Stratford-upon-Avon.
Any Witch Way
0.3 km
A mystical boutique in Stratford-upon-Avon offering crystals, candles, tarot, and witchcraft treasures in a charming antique centre setting.
Razzle Dazzle
0.3 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion and unique costume treasures in the cozy charm of Razzle Dazzle, Stratford-upon-Avon’s beloved boutique.
Ivy'ss Vintage Decor & Gifts
0.3 km
Explore a charming vintage shop in Stratford-upon-Avon, featuring unique decor and gifts that offer a glimpse into the past.
Mint Velvet Stratford-upon-Avon
0.3 km
Discover relaxed glamour and luxurious women's fashion at Mint Velvet Stratford-upon-Avon, your stylish boutique on Wood Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Officers Mess - 1940's Cocktail Bar
0.1 km
Step into the 1940s at Officers Mess, Stratford’s premier cocktail bar blending vintage charm, world-class drinks, and vibrant live entertainment.
Cox's Yard, Stratford-Upon-Avon
0.1 km
Lively riverside pub in Stratford-upon-Avon blending casual dining, sports, and scenic views by the River Avon.
That Little Gin & Prosecco Bar
0.1 km
A cozy, intimate gin and Prosecco bar tucked away in Stratford-upon-Avon, offering an extensive spirit selection and warm, friendly vibes.
Rose & Crown
0.1 km
Classic English pub charm with hearty fare, friendly service, and a spacious garden in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon.
The Bear
0.3 km
Historic riverside pub in Stratford-upon-Avon serving classic ales and comforting British fare in a warm, cosy setting with scenic river views.
The Phoenix
0.3 km
A vibrant independent bar in Stratford-upon-Avon offering craft beers, authentic Neapolitan pizza, and a leafy rooftop terrace for a lively social experience.
The Keys
0.3 km
A friendly and inviting pub in Stratford-upon-Avon with a quirky garden, great drinks, and classic pub fare in a relaxed atmosphere.
Windmill
0.4 km
A welcoming traditional British pub in Warwickshire serving classic dishes and local brews in a cozy, community-focused setting.
The Avon Lounge
0.5 km
A lively cocktail bar in Stratford-upon-Avon known for friendly hosts, great music, and a welcoming atmosphere perfect for evening socializing.
The Stratford Alehouse
0.6 km
A cozy micropub in Stratford-upon-Avon celebrated for exceptional real ales, live music, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Bull - El Toro | Stratford-Upon-Avon
0.7 km
A lively fusion of Spanish tapas and English pub charm in Stratford-upon-Avon, serving exceptional food and drink in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
The Avenue Club
1.5 km
A friendly and affordable bar with live music and games, offering a relaxed social scene in Stratford-upon-Avon’s industrial heart.
Unicorn
10.8 km
A warm, family-friendly pub in Warwick offering excellent British fare, accommodating service, and a welcoming local atmosphere.
The Howard Arms Ilmington
11.2 km
A charming 400-year-old Cotswold inn blending historic warmth, fine dining, and stylish comfort in the heart of Ilmington village.
The Castle Inn
12.1 km
A historic Warwick pub with quirky charm, lively entertainment, and a welcoming beer garden for locals and visitors alike.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Caz Bar Nightclub
0.3 km
Experience Stratford-upon-Avon's glamorous late-night vibe at Caz Bar, a vintage cellar nightclub with live DJs, dancers, and premium drinks until dawn.
The Stratford Upon Avon Bridge Club
0.8 km
Explore the vibrant community of The Stratford Upon Avon Bridge Club, where bridge enthusiasts gather for games, camaraderie, and local culture in a picturesque setting.
The Cavern
13.4 km
A vibrant night club in Warwick offering energetic music, lively dancing, and a social atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Neon
15.5 km
Leamington Spa’s largest nightclub, Neon delivers vibrant music, themed nights, and a dynamic party atmosphere every Friday until dawn.
Altoria Nightclub
15.9 km
Experience Leamington Spa’s vibrant nightlife at Altoria Nightclub with diverse music floors, VIP service, and a unique rooftop terrace open till 3 am.
Smack
16.0 km
Leamington Spa’s energetic and affordable two-floor nightclub with a storied past and a lively, if sometimes challenging, atmosphere.
Club PST
33.5 km
Compact, bass-driven Digbeth club with reggae roots, stacked rooms and late-night underground parties.
Disco Wonderland
33.8 km
Dive into Birmingham's dazzling disco haven, where retro beats, neon lights, and endless energy light up Deritend's nightlife.
VOID Nightclub
33.8 km
Dive into Digbeth's underground heartbeat at VOID Nightclub, where marathon raves and thunderous bass fuel Birmingham's rawest nightlife from dusk till dawn.
The Night Owl
33.8 km
A cozy Digbeth venue where soulful retro beats and friendly vibes create unforgettable nights for all music lovers.
Quantum Vnues
33.8 km
Dive into Digbeth's beating heart: Quantum Venues delivers electrifying nights of music, lights, and unbridled energy in Birmingham's creative core.
Next Door & Spotlight
33.8 km
Two adjoining Digbeth nightspots — a pulse-driven DJ room and an intimate bar space with street-food pop-ups and a raw, industrial vibe.
Nightingale Club
33.9 km
Birmingham's legendary LGBTQIA+ superclub: three floors of pulsating beats, go-go glamour, and five decades of unapologetic queer joy in the Gay Village.
Mango Night Club
34.0 km
A high‑energy Bristol Street nightclub serving Afrobeats, hip‑hop and R&B for late‑night dancers and party crowds in central Birmingham.
Sector 57
34.0 km
Experience Birmingham’s vibrant nightlife at Sector 57, where eclectic music and electric vibes create unforgettable nights in Deritend.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Tranquil
- Cultural Heritage
- Scenic
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
